Farmers (Bankruptcies and Credit Facilities)

HC Deb 17 July 1956 vol 556 cc84-5W

Mr. Thornton-Kemsley

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if the total of five farmers declared bankrupt in Scotland in 1955 shows an increase or a decrease over 1954 and 1953.

Mr. J. Stuart

Four farmers were declared bankrupt in Scotland in 1953 and seven in 1954.

Mr. Thornton-Kemsley

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that farmers in Scotland are finding it difficult to obtain credit from banks, in view of the credit squeeze; and if he will give the latest figure available of bank overdrafts to farmers and a comparative figure for the previous twelve months.

Mr. J. Stuart

On the information available the credit facilities for farmers in Scotland appear to be generally adequate. Bank advances to Scottish farmers as at 28th May, 1956, amount to £28,112,187 compared with £27,574,763 for the same date in 1955, showing that credits available from the banks have increased by nearly 2 per cent.